Chicago Firemen Strike Out House Fire, Save Pot Worth Millions

CHICAGO -- A fire on the South Side led the law to millions of dollars worth of marijuana.

When firefighters showed up to put out a basement fire in a home in the Gage Park neighborhood Saturday, they found 1,600 pounds of marijuana worth $3.2 million and 35 grams of cocaine worth $4,300.

Fire officials say the fire broke out around 1a.m. at 5030 S. Maplewood Ave. Deering District Capt. Robert Johnson said the small blaze started when a cigarette was left on a mattress. Once fire officials put out the blaze, they noticed several dozen plastic bags and bricks wrapped in clear plastic and contacted police.

Fire officials say the building was not occupied at the time of the fire. Police are still investigating.

Related:

• Firefighters Find $3 Million Pot Stash In Burning Basement